The second day of Paris Fashion week presented a multitude of looks created by an array of international designers; ranging from Ukraine, Lebanon and Belgium.
Kenzo
Throughout the physical show, Kenzo showcased a variation of colour; from bright pastel to striking shades of red. However, there appeared to be a clear theme running through the SS21 Kenzo collection; a celebration of nature, with a particular tribute to bees. Creative director Oliveira Baptista addressed the inspiration of the floral collection by noting that “the world is crying, so are the flowers.” Onlookers saw a heavy resemblance to beekeeper outfits, with vast wide brim hats, and loose-fitting trousers that drape with elegance.
The continuous use of large hats and face coverings also allude to a contemporary take on the coveted PPE of the ‘new world’. Other designers including Bora Aksu, have ameliorated this year’s global pandemic, to provide inspiration for their collections.
Kenzo SS21 Collection
Balmain
The much-anticipated Balmain SS21 show was nothing short of spectacular, and Creative Director Olivier Rousteing certainly did not disappoint. The pre-runway show paid tribute to Pierre Balmain as it presented models in ‘70s inspired looks featuring the iconic PB monogram on the pieces. Flared bell trousers and fitted suit jackets confirmed a ‘70s theme, whilst affirming an allure of French elegance.
The show continued by delivering ostentatious, neon-coloured suits; sporting Balmain’s signature pagoda shoulder pads, and accompanied by PB monogram bags. Whilst these bold pieces stole the show, Rousteing’s collection displayed models wearing stunning gowns embellished with Swarovski crystals, captivating knitwear, and chić biker shorts.
Balmain SS21 Collection
Balmain SS21 Collection
Dries Van Noten
Belgian designer Dries Van Noten had always been a stranger to digital fashion prior to this pandemic. However, like many other fashion designers, he has successfully adapted to the new remote demonstration of collections this year. Dries van Noten’s first ever co-ed collection was presented in a series of colourful shots of models freely dancing to a drum beat.
The pinnacle of this SS21 collection is certainly within the colours and prints, that have been conceptualised from New Zealand Artist Len Lye’s celluloid film paintings. Van Noten himself said that he “started to look around for things that create a high energy: a lightness, but also different kinds of beauty… So it had not to be the beauty that makes your dream, but beauty that gives you energy: makes you want to move, go outside and do the things we can’t currently do so well.”
Dries Van Noten SS21
Dries Van Noten Spring Summer 2021 – Video by Viviane Sassen
Words by Molly James
Graphics by Frances Scott
